5 things to know about diabetes and foot wounds

A person with diabetes is prone to developing sores on the feet, heels or toes. Known as diabetic ulcers, these sores can lead to amputation if not cared for properly.

“It is so important for a person with diabetes to do a daily foot check,” said nurse practitioner Heather Jankowski. “This will help you catch problems early and get them treated right away. Early treatment greatly reduces your risk of amputation.”

What exactly is a diabetic foot ulcer?

It’s a wound that occurs on the feet, heels or toes of people with diabetes. Many times, there is little to no feeling in the feet or the ulcer itself. A pulse is present and the skin is normal or warm to the touch. The skin on the legs and feet may be dry and flaky.

Nerve damage puts you at higher risk for foot ulcers

The loss of feeling in your feet, caused by diabetic neuropathy, means you may not notice a cut, blister or sore. These seemingly small problems can lead to foot ulcers and infections. If an infection doesn’t get better with treatment, your toe, foot or part of your leg may need to be amputated to prevent infection from spreading. Diabetes is the leading cause of limb loss.

How can I prevent nerve damage or stop it from getting worse?

• Keep your blood sugar in your target range as much as possible.

• Don’t smoke because it reduces blood flow to the feet.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables and eat less sugar and salt.

• Get 10-20 minutes of exercise every day.

• Take the medicines your doctor prescribes you.

• If you lose feeling or have numbness in your feet please let your provider know. 

What are some ways of preventing diabetic foot ulcers?

Most people with diabetes can prevent serious foot complications. Regular care at home and making all of your doctor’s visits are key to prevention:

• Check your feet every day for cuts, redness, swelling, sores, blisters, corns, calluses or any other change to the skin or nails. Use a mirror if you can’t see the bottom of your feet or ask a family member to help.

• Never go barefoot, even indoors. This will help you avoid injuries.

• Wear shoes that fit well.

• Get your feet checked at every health care visit. And visit a foot doctor every year, more often if you have nerve damage. Your foot doctor will check for feeling and blood flow in your feet.

• Avoid getting your feet too hot or too cold. Check before you dip your toes into that steamy bath! Don't use hot water bottles or heating pads to warm cold feet.

• Wash your feet every day and dry thoroughly, even between your toes. No soaking or powder.

• Moisturize your feet after cleaning with alcohol- and fragrance-free lotions and creams. Make sure not to get cream between your toes!

What should I do if I think I have a foot ulcer?

Go see your doctor. You may be referred to a wound care center for treatment. Your care team will organize a comprehensive treatment plan to help you heal.

Talk to your doctor about a referral to our Wound Care Center, or contact us directly for an assessment. Call (520) 324-4220 for more information. Learn more here.